ROTARY members on the Fraser Coast are marking progress towards a Polio free world while helping to end the paralysing disease.

The Cycle, Run or Walk fundraiser is among many to be held around the world in honour of World Polio Day, 24th October.  

On the Fraser Coast, Rotarians are inviting community members to join with them in raising awareness, funds and support to end polio, a vaccine preventable disease that still threatens children in parts of the world today.

Rotary Hervey Bay Sunrise President, Kirsti Kee said “many of us can remember children at school who were suffering from the effects of Polio”.

“Thank goodness that no longer occurs in Australia, but we need to remain vigilant to ensure this remains the case”.

The Cycle Run or Walk fundraiser will take place on the Mary to Bay Rail Trail, providing an opportunity for community members to explore the Trail.  Participants are encouraged to wear red for polio.

The event will kick off between 7 AM and 9 AM, with participants starting at either the Takura or Churchill Mine Road Trailheads. 

You can choose to cycle, run, or walk along the trail, heading from Takura to Churchill Mine Road or in the opposite direction. The distance from one end to the other is 7.2 kms, with the option to complete the full 14.4 kms for a round trip, or simply cover any distance that suits your pace before turning back.

A minimum donation of $10 per person or $20 per family is required to participate, though many may also choose to seek sponsorship for added support.

Registration is easy—email pitman.glenda@gmail.com to secure a sponsor form in advance or simply register when you arrive on the day.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to get active and contribute to a good cause while enjoying the outdoors.

• WHERE Start between 7am and 9am at Takura or Churchill Mine Road Trailheads.

• HOW Cycle, Run or Walk from Takura to Churchill Mine Road or vice versa

• HOW FAR 7.2kms end to end (or any distance and return) or 14.4 kms total return.

• HOW MUCH Sponsorship or minimum donation to value of $10 pp or $20 per family.

• REGISTER for a sponsor form by emailing pitman.glenda@gmail.com (preferable) or register on the day

All funds raised on the day will be donated to Rotary’s Global Polio Eradication Initiative.  The Gates Foundation has pledged to match funds raised 2:1 for a total annual contribution of $US150 million.